Amit Kumar | Environmental | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Soil Scientist

Dr. Amit Kumar | Environmental | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Amit Kumar, CSIR- National Botanical Research Institute, India

Dr. Amit Kumar is a plant molecular biologist at the CSIR-National Botanical Research Institute, India. With a Ph.D. in Environmental Science, his research focuses on plant responses to heavy metal stress, particularly arsenic toxicity, and the protective role of selenium. He has held prestigious fellowships including the SERB-NPDF and Dr. D. S. Kothari Postdoctoral Fellowship, and brings extensive experience in molecular biology, plant stress physiology, and environmental biotechnology.

Profile

Orcid

Summary:

Dr. Amit Kumar is a dedicated and impactful researcher whose work contributes to understanding and mitigating environmental stress in plants, particularly under heavy metal and pollution stress. His research supports sustainable agriculture and environmental restoration, and is aligned with global sustainability goals. With a solid academic foundation, institutional support, and published outcomes in relevant fields, he stands out as a strong candidate for the Research for Best Researcher Award.

🎓 Education

Dr. Amit Kumar holds a Ph.D. in Environmental Science from Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar University, Lucknow, where he conducted his doctoral research at the CSIR-National Botanical Research Institute. His thesis focused on the “Response of amino acids and thiol metabolism in rice (Oryza sativa L.) plant during arsenic stress and selenium supplementation.” He completed his M.Sc. in Biotechnology in 2006 and B.Sc. in Zoology, Botany, and Chemistry in 2004 from Bundelkhand University, Jhansi. Earlier, he passed his Intermediate and High School from U.P. Board, Allahabad, with a focus on Biology and Science respectively.

💼Experience

Dr. Kumar is currently serving as an ICMR-Research Associate in the Molecular Biology and Biotechnology Division at CSIR-NBRI, Lucknow, since July 2022. From January 2020 to July 2022, he worked as a SERB-National Post-Doctoral Fellow in the Department of Botany at the University of Lucknow. Prior to this, he briefly held the position of Project Scientist in the Environmental Technologies Lab at CSIR-NBRI in late 2019. He also worked as a Research Associate in the Plant Ecology and Climate Change Division of CSIR-NBRI, and earlier as a Quality Analyst in the Toxicology Section at Dr. Sahai Laboratory, Lucknow. Between 2015 and 2018, he was a Dr. D. S. Kothari Postdoctoral Fellow at the University of Lucknow. His experience also includes roles as Senior Project Officer, CSIR-Senior Research Fellow, and Project Assistant-II at CSIR-NBRI in various research-focused divisions.

🔬Research Focus

Dr. Kumar’s research expertise lies at the intersection of molecular biology, environmental biotechnology, and plant stress physiology. His primary focus has been on understanding plant responses to heavy metal stress, particularly arsenic, and the mitigating role of beneficial elements such as selenium. He has worked extensively on amino acid metabolism, thiol regulation, and plant adaptation mechanisms under environmental stress conditions.

🛠️Skills

Dr. Kumar possesses advanced skills in molecular biology techniques, plant stress physiology, environmental biotechnology, and biochemical analysis. He is experienced in conducting laboratory-based research as well as field-based ecological assessments. His multidisciplinary background combines strong analytical capabilities with a deep understanding of plant-environment interactions.

🏆Awards

Dr. Kumar has been awarded several prestigious fellowships, including the SERB-National Post-Doctoral Fellowship and the Dr. D. S. Kothari Postdoctoral Fellowship. He also held the CSIR-Senior Research Fellowship and served in multiple research roles funded by government research agencies, highlighting his continued contributions to plant science and environmental research.

📚 Publications

  • Evaluation of Phytoremediation Potential of Pteris vittata L. on Arsenic Contaminated Soil Using Allium cepa Bioassay
    Authors: Amit Kumar, et al.
    Journal: Bulletin of Environmental Contamination and Toxicology
    Year: 2022

  • 21-Day Lockdown in India Dramatically Reduced Air Pollution Indices in Lucknow and New Delhi, India
    Authors: Amit Kumar, et al.
    Journal: Bulletin of Environmental Contamination and Toxicology
    Year: 2020

Conclusion:

Dr. Amit Kumar meets and exceeds the expectations for the Research for Best Researcher Award. His research is scientifically sound, socially relevant, and positioned within a leading research institute. With his dedication to environmental solutions and academic excellence, he is not only a deserving nominee but also a potential role model in the scientific community. Continued efforts to broaden the international reach and practical applications of his work will further solidify his standing as a leading researcher in his field.

Clement Nyarko Opoku | Environmental | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Soil Scientist

Mr. Clement Nyarko Opoku | Environmental | Best Researcher Award

Mr. Clement Nyarko Opoku, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Ghana

Clement Nyarko Opoku is a graduate researcher in Materials Engineering at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Ghana. His research focuses on ceramic engineering materials, sustainable building materials, corrosion, and waste management. He has experience as a Graduate Research and Teaching Assistant, contributing to studies on geopolymer cement and material characterization. Clement has also interned in the construction and civil engineering sectors, gaining practical expertise in material testing and site supervision. He is a recipient of the KNUST Engineering Education Project Scholarship and has held leadership roles in GRASAG KNUST. His skills include XRD, XRF, microscopy characterization, AutoCAD, and research analysis.

Profile

Orcid

Summary:

Clement Nyarko Opoku is a promising researcher in materials engineering with a focus on sustainable construction materials. His academic achievements, research contributions, technical skills, and leadership roles make him a strong candidate for recognition. However, expanding his publication record, engaging in more collaborations, and securing grants would further solidify his standing as a top researcher.

🎓 Education

Clement Nyarko Opoku is currently pursuing an MPhil in Materials Engineering at Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), where his research focuses on investigating the effect of Gibbsite in Lithomargic Clay on the mechanical and physical properties of Limestone Calcined Clay Cement. He previously earned a BSc in Materials Engineering from KNUST, during which he conducted research on bitumen-reinforced carbon black for pavement applications and material selection for various engineering projects. Additionally, he holds an Advanced Diploma in Occupational Safety and Health from the Imperial College of Mines and Safety.

💼Experience

Clement has gained extensive experience in research, teaching, and engineering practice. As a Graduate Research Assistant at KNUST, he collaborated with researchers on geopolymer cement advancements and gained hands-on exposure to laboratory equipment and experimental protocols. He also served as a Laboratory Research and Teaching Assistant, assisting lecturers with research and guiding students facing academic difficulties. His industry experience includes an internship at Sino Africa Development Company, where he supported construction supervision, safety compliance, and site inspections. He also interned at the Ghana Ports and Harbor Authority’s Civil Engineering Department, working on concrete testing, welding operations, and road material assessments.

🔬Research Focus

Clement’s research interests encompass ceramic engineering materials, sustainable building materials, corrosion, sustainable energy materials, waste management, and water treatment. His work contributes to the development of innovative and eco-friendly materials for construction and industrial applications.

🛠️Skills

Clement possesses strong technical skills, including intermediate knowledge of X-ray Diffraction (XRD), X-ray Fluorescence (XRF), and microscopy characterization. He is proficient in software tools such as AutoCAD, Origin, and Microsoft Office. His professional qualities include teamwork and leadership capabilities, effective communication and interpersonal skills, strong organizational and time management abilities, and resilience under pressure.

🏆Awards

Clement was nominated for the Graduate Assistant of the Year award during the 30th Anniversary of GRASAG KNUST in 2023. He is also a recipient of the KNUST Engineering Education Project Scholarship (KEEP KNUST) from January 2022 to November 2024. His leadership experience includes serving as the Organizing Committee Secretary for GRASAG KNUST, where he played a key role in planning events and supporting international postgraduate students. He was also a Postgraduate Representative on the Faculty of Mechanical and Chemical Engineering Board, advocating for postgraduate students, and served as a Senator for the Materials Engineering Department in GRASAG KNUST. Additionally, as Deputy Welfare Committee Chairperson for the College of Engineering, he helped implement mentorship programs for first-year students.

📚 Publications

Title: Effect of gibbsite in lithomargic clay on the mechanical and physical properties of limestone calcined clay cement

Author: Clement Nyarko Opoku

Year: 2025

Journal: International Journal of Ceramic Engineering & Science

Conclusion:

Mr. Opoku is a suitable candidate for the Best Researcher Award, particularly for early-career researchers. While he has demonstrated significant research contributions and leadership, further strengthening his publication record and international collaborations would enhance his competitiveness for such an award.

Claudia Muro | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Published on by Soil Scientist

Dr. Claudia Muro | Environmental Science | Best Researcher Award

Dr. Claudia Muro, National Technological Institute of Mexico, Mexico

Dr. Claudia Muro Urista is a Professor-Researcher at the National Technological Institute of Mexico, specializing in environmental pollution, wastewater treatment, and membrane separation processes. With a background in Chemical Engineering, she holds doctorates in Environmental Sciences and Educational Mathematics. Her research focuses on effluent treatment, water recovery, natural pigment extraction, and sustainable industrial processes. She has extensive experience in academia and industry, mentoring postgraduate students and leading research projects. Recognized by Mexico’s National System of Researchers (SNI) as a Level 1 researcher, she actively contributes to environmental sustainability and technological innovation.

Profile

Scopus

Summary:

Dr. Claudia Muro is a distinguished researcher in environmental sciences with expertise in wastewater treatment, pollution monitoring, and industrial sustainability. She has demonstrated strong academic leadership, innovative research contributions, and national recognition. Her work has significant implications for water conservation and pollution control. While she excels in many areas, enhancing international partnerships and securing larger research grants could further elevate her profile.

 

🎓 Education

Claudia Muro Urista holds a Doctorate in Environmental Sciences, a Doctorate in Science in Educational Mathematics, and a Master of Science in Mathematics from the National Polytechnic Institute. She also obtained a Chemical Engineering degree from the Michoacán University of San Nicolás de Hidalgo​. Additionally, she completed postdoctoral research at the University of Oviedo​.

 

💼Experience

Dr. Claudia Muro has extensive experience in environmental research and academia. She is a Professor-Researcher at the National Technological Institute of Mexico, focusing on effluent treatment, pollution monitoring, waste utilization, and membrane processes. Previously, she worked in production process engineering in the industry​. . She has also been involved in postgraduate education, supervising students and leading research projects​.

 

🔬Research Focus

Her research covers industrial and environmental challenges, such as wastewater treatment and water recovery, natural pigment extraction, polymer-based nanocomposites for pollutant removal, and pollution monitoring in high mountain lakes. She has also worked on sustainable industrial processes and the development of new environmental technologies.

 

Awards and Honors

Dr. Claudia Muro has been recognized by Mexico’s National System of Researchers (SNI) as a Level 1 researcher. She has received awards for her contributions to environmental sciences, research, and academic excellence. Additionally, she has participated in the Professional Teaching Development Program (PRODEP).

 

Skills

Her expertise includes wastewater treatment, environmental pollution control, membrane separation processes, natural pigment extraction, biomolecule isolation, and sustainable industrial practices​.

 

Publications

  • “Biological decolorization of Amaranth dye with Trametes polyzona in an airlift reactor under three airflow regimes”
    • Authors: Pérez-Cadena, R., García-Esquivel, Y., Castañeda-Cisneros, Y.E., Muro-Urista, C.R., Téllez-Jurado, A.
    • Journal: Heliyon
    • Year: 2020
    • Citations: 14

 

  • “Biological Decolorization of Amaranth, Denim Blue, and Orange G with Trametes polyzona”
    • Authors: Uribe-Arizmendi, I., Anducho-Reyes, M.A., Ramírez-Vargas, M.R., Muro-Urista, C.R., Téllez-Jurado, A.
    • Journal: Water, Air, and Soil Pollution
    • Year: 2020
    • Citations: 6

 

  • “Pigments from fungi, an opportunity of production for diverse applications”
    • Authors: Muro Urista, C., Gracida Rodríguez, J., Abreu Corona, A., Arana Cuenca, A., Téllez Jurado, A.
    • Journal: Biologia (Poland)
    • Year: 2016
    • Citations: 11

 

  • “Application of immobilized fungi on food effluent treatment using airlift reactor”
    • Authors: Sierra Solache, R.E., Muro-Urista, C., Elena Ortega Aguilar, R., Arana Cuenca, A., Téllez Jurado, A.
    • Journal: Desalination and Water Treatment
    • Year: 2016
    • Citations: 2

 

  • “Enzyme production by immobilized Phanerochaete chrysosporium using airlift reactor”
    • Authors: González-Ramírez, D.F., Muro-Urista, C.R., Arana-Cuenca, A., Téllez-Jurado, A., González-Becerra, A.E.
    • Journal: Biologia
    • Year: 2014
    • Citations: 7

 

  • “Cheese whey as a source of active peptides: Production, analysis, purification and animal and human trials” (Book Chapter)
    • Authors: Riera Rodríguez, F.A., Fernández Martínez, A., Muro Urista, C.
    • Book: Agricultural Research Updates
    • Year: 2014
    • Citations: 3

 

  • “Production and functionality of active peptides from milk” (Review)
    • Authors: Muro Urista, C., Álvarez Fernández, R., Riera Rodriguez, F., Arana Cuenca, A., Téllez Jurado, A.
    • Journal: Food Science and Technology International
    • Year: 2011
    • Citations: 147

 

Conclusion:

Dr. Muro is highly suitable for the Best Researcher Award due to her impactful research, national recognition, and contributions to academia and industry. Her expertise aligns with critical environmental challenges, making her a strong contender for this honor. Addressing areas for improvement could further strengthen her candidacy for future awards.